Rancho Mirage

Welcome to Rancho Mirage

Rancho Mirage, located in the heart of California's Coachella Valley, is an upscale desert community renowned for its luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and serene living environment. Nestled between the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains, this picturesque locale offers a unique blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Rancho Mirage exudes a tranquil yet sophisticated vibe, making it an ideal retreat for both residents and visitors seeking a high-quality lifestyle. With its sunny climate, palm-lined streets, and a strong sense of community, Rancho Mirage is a prime destination for those looking to enjoy the best of desert living.

History of Rancho Mirage

Rancho Mirage boasts a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally inhabited by the Cahuilla Native American tribe, the area began to develop in the 1930s when prominent figures from Hollywood discovered its charm and potential as a desert oasis. The neighborhood's growth accelerated in the 1940s and 1950s, attracting celebrities and affluent individuals who were drawn to its secluded and luxurious lifestyle.

Significant events that shaped Rancho Mirage include the establishment of iconic resorts such as the Thunderbird Country Club and the Tamarisk Country Club, which became social hubs for the elite. The city was incorporated in 1973, further solidifying its status as a premier destination in the Coachella Valley. Over the decades, Rancho Mirage has continued to evolve, balancing its rich historical heritage with modern development, resulting in a vibrant community that celebrates both its past and its future.

Local Attractions

Rancho Mirage is home to a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Sunnylands Center & Gardens, a historic estate that once served as the winter home of Walter and Leonore Annenberg. Today, it functions as a public attraction with beautiful gardens, art exhibits, and guided tours.

For those interested in arts and culture, the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the renowned courses at the Mission Hills Country Club, the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, and the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa, which offer stunning landscapes and challenging play.

Additionally, the River at Rancho Mirage is a popular shopping and entertainment complex featuring upscale shops, dining options, and a cinema, providing a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and family outings.

Dining & Nightlife

Rancho Mirage boasts a vibrant dining scene with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes catering to all tastes. For fine dining, Wally's Desert Turtle offers an elegant setting and gourmet cuisine that has been a staple in the community for decades. Another notable mention is Acqua California Bistro at The River, known for its diverse menu and scenic waterfront views.

Casual dining options include the popular Babe's Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse, which serves mouth-watering BBQ dishes and craft beers, and the family-friendly Shame on the Moon, offering a cozy atmosphere and American comfort food. For those seeking international flavors, Las Casuelas Nuevas delivers authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant, festive environment.

Nightlife in Rancho Mirage is more relaxed but still offers plenty of options. The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage’s State Fare Bar & Kitchen provides a sophisticated setting for cocktails and live music, while the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa has a lively bar scene with frequent live entertainment. For a more laid-back experience, local wine bars and lounges, such as VUE Grille & Bar, offer perfect spots to unwind and socialize.

Parks & Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Rancho Mirage with its numerous parks and recreational facilities. The Rancho Mirage Community Park is a central hub for outdoor activities, featuring picnic areas, tennis courts, and a playground, as well as an amphitheater for community events and performances.

Hikers and nature lovers can explore the various trails at the nearby Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, which offer breathtaking views and opportunities to encounter local wildlife. Blixseth Mountain Park provides additional hiking trails and scenic overlooks, perfect for a day of adventure.

For those who enjoy golfing, the numerous world-class golf courses in the area provide excellent facilities and stunning desert landscapes. Additionally, the Desert Recreation District offers various sports programs, fitness classes, and recreational activities for all ages, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can stay active and engaged.

Cultural Scene

Rancho Mirage has a rich cultural scene that reflects its diverse community and history. The Sunnylands Center & Gardens not only serves as a historical landmark but also hosts various cultural events, exhibitions, and educational programs throughout the year, making it a cornerstone of the local cultural landscape.

For theater enthusiasts, the Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre in nearby Cathedral City offers professional theater productions that range from classic plays to contemporary works. Additionally, the Rancho Mirage Amphitheater, located within the Rancho Mirage Community Park, is a prime venue for outdoor concerts, theater performances, and community events, providing entertainment under the stars.

Art lovers can explore the numerous galleries in the area, such as the Heather James Fine Art gallery, which showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The nearby Palm Springs Art Museum also offers extensive art collections and rotating exhibitions, contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of the region.

Throughout the year, Rancho Mirage hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Rancho Mirage Art Affaire, which celebrates local artists and craftspeople, and the Desert Arts Festival, attracting visitors from all over to enjoy live music, food, and artistic displays.

Commute & Accessibility

Rancho Mirage is well-connected and easily accessible, making commuting convenient for residents and visitors. The neighborhood is strategically located along the major thoroughfare of Highway 111, which runs through the Coachella Valley and connects Rancho Mirage to neighboring cities such as Palm Springs and Palm Desert.

Interstate 10, a major east-west route, is also nearby, providing easy access to Los Angeles, San Diego, and other major cities in Southern California. The Palm Springs International Airport, located just a short drive away, offers both domestic and international flights, making air travel convenient for residents and visitors.

Public transportation options include the SunLine Transit Agency, which operates several bus routes throughout the Coachella Valley, connecting Rancho Mirage to other communities and key destinations within the region.

Walkability & Bikeability

Rancho Mirage is a pedestrian-friendly community with a focus on walkability and bikeability. Many neighborhoods feature well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian pathways, and bike lanes, making it easy and safe for residents to walk or bike around the area.

The city’s commitment to promoting an active lifestyle is evident in its extensive network of walking and biking trails. The Whitewater River Trail, for instance, offers a scenic route for cyclists and walkers, running parallel to the Whitewater River and providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The city’s parks, such as Rancho Mirage Community Park and Michael S. Wolfson Park, also feature walking paths and open spaces that encourage outdoor activities. Additionally, the city's efforts to improve infrastructure and promote bike-friendly initiatives have made it easier for residents to choose cycling as a viable mode of transportation.

Real Estate in Rancho Mirage

Around Rancho Mirage, CA

There's plenty to do around Rancho Mirage, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

3

Car-Dependent

Walking Score

29

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Yoga Bliss, Big Buddha Barbell, and Golfzon Leadbetter - Palm Desert.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the Yoga Bliss page on Yelp	Active	4.4 miles	16 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Big Buddha Barbell page on Yelp Search 71-537 Hwy 111 on Google Maps	Active	1.47 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Golfzon Leadbetter - Palm Desert page on Yelp Search 9002 Shadow Ridge Rd on Google Maps	Active	2.79 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the KZG Performance Center page on Yelp Search 73175 Hwy 111 on Google Maps	Active	3.69 miles	9 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Hair By Angela Edmondson page on Yelp Search 68457 E Palm Canyon on Google Maps	Beauty	2.61 miles	19 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Skinaholics Beauty Bar page on Yelp Search 73780 El Paseo on Google Maps	Beauty	4.13 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Ellie's Permanent Make Up page on Yelp Search 73744 Hwy 111 on Google Maps	Beauty	4.02 miles	6 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Tanya Cser Hair page on Yelp Search 72996 El Paseo on Google Maps	Beauty	3.57 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Younger By Tonight page on Yelp Search 74140 El Paseo on Google Maps	Beauty	4.36 miles	11 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the New Pretty You Derma Technology page on Yelp Search 44419 Town Center Way on Google Maps	Beauty	2.92 miles	6 reviews	5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Rancho Mirage, CA

Population Households Employment

Rancho Mirage has 8,817 households, with an average household size of 1.93. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Rancho Mirage do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 17,129 people call Rancho Mirage home. The population density is 675.62 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.